Published on 9th March 2026
With compassionate support from her Change Grow Live worker, Tristan, and secure housing through St Mungo’s, Tamika has been able to rebuild her life. She now looks to the future with optimism, surrounded by her family and her dog, Bubbles.
Here's her story:
"When I was 27, I unfortunately ended up on the wrong side of the law and spent time in jail. It was after that period that my life began to go downhill. Soon after leaving jail, I lost my house and began living on the streets. This is when I turned to drugs and started using heroin.
My life was very chaotic – I was sleeping in doorways around the local town, and I couldn't see my children. I was too proud to seek help. I thought I could manage on my own, but then I found Change Grow Live and St Mungo's. Together, they helped to find me a home to live in, and it was from then that I was able to start my recovery.
With the help of my support worker, Tristan, I was able to access the right support. I began using opiate substitute medication to help me quit heroin – first methadone, then buprenorphine. I am now on Buvidal injections, and I haven't touched heroin for eight months!
Tristan has been brilliant throughout my journey. He listens and cares about me and has inspired me to want to help others in the future.
I now have my dog, Bubbles, a house and I'm a grandma. I'm very proud of how far I've come, and I am looking forward to what my life brings."
To anyone suffering, you can overcome it. Recovery is possible, with the right support around you.